The Great Migration
The Great Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve is sometimes referred to as the ‘greatest show on earth’ – it’s a spectacle of colossal proportion. More than 1.5 million wildebeests, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras, elands, and gazelles, make their own journey every year over a staggering 40,000 miles of the shared Kenya-Tanzania ecosystem. These herds move 800 to 1,000 kilometers along age-old migration paths in search of new grass and water. The migration typically reaches its zenith in the Masai Mara during August, and its timing can shift based on rainfall and masai mara weather patterns.
Perhaps the most mesmerizing part of the migration is the naked spectacle of massive herds sweeping across open plains. August turns the Masai Mara into a moving picture as wildebeests and zebras graze and march together. It is not just about survival; it sustains the greater ecosystem. Lions, hyenas and cheetahs feast during this time. If you visit the Masai Mara in August, you could see some spectacular predator-prey action – from a lioness stalking a wildebeest to cheetahs performing their trademark top-speed chases.
Some of the most dramatic moments occur at the famed Mara river crossings. When herds try to cross the rivers, they contend with crocodiles, rushing waters, and panicked stampedes. These crossings, while often deadly, are the hallmark of survival for the herds. This dangerous trek emphasizes nature’s brutality, where death and life intertwine.
Migration is renewal. While thousands are captured by predators, thousands more are born. About 400,000 calves are born every year, almost 8,000 every single day during the calving season in Tanzania’s Serengeti. This cycle of life renews the resilience and timeless beauty of this natural wonder, making it a prime time for wildlife safaris in the Masai Mara region.
| Aspect | Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herd Movement | Mass migration across 800–1,000 km | Provides food chain balance | Risk of predator attacks |
| River Crossings | Dramatic crossings of rivers like the Mara | Thrilling wildlife viewing | High mortality rates |
| Predator Activity | Increased visibility of lions, cheetahs, hyenas | Unique predator-prey interactions | Can be distressing to witness |
| Ecosystem Impact | Sustains biodiversity of Masai Mara and Serengeti | Supports tourism and conservation efforts | Vulnerable to environmental changes |
August Climate
August, in the Masai Mara region, marks the height of the dry season and provides some of the most optimum conditions for wildlife safaris. This period is characterized by low precipitation, resulting in clear skies and wonderful views that are indispensable for game drives and picture-taking. Surprisingly enough, the Masai Mara weather can surprise visitors from time to time. Though typically arid, an unprecedented 144 mm has been recorded in the recent past, with short bursts of downpour and intermittent brightness. The days are pleasantly warm, averaging between the mid to high twenties Celsius (mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit) , perfect for outdoor activities. Nights, on the other hand, can cool down pretty quickly, with lows typically ranging near 10°C (50°F).
These dry conditions set out clear benefits for excellent wildlife viewing. With decreased cover, short grass plains dominate, making it easier to spot wildlife. Predators and prey become more apparent as they congregate around diminishing water holes. This is especially thrilling for anyone looking to catch the Great Migration, as large herds of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River during this time of year. The absence of dense leaves also provides photographers with unobstructed sightlines toward the action, enhancing their chances of capturing wonderful sightings.
You have to pack right for the August climate. Mornings and nights can be quite cool, averaging 13°C (55°F) – 14°C (57°F). We suggest dressing in layers to remain comfortable during early game drives that kick off at dawn. Things like fleece jackets, scarves and gloves are the saviors of those cooler times of day, with ‘lighter clothing’ great for when you’re out and about in the warmer midday sun. A waterproof jacket or poncho can work well, with the occasional rain. Remember essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat for protection against the harsh midday sun.
Humidity in August hovers around 65-85% post-rain shower. While this level is manageable, it’s wise to pack airy fabrics to keep you cool throughout the day. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the uneven terrain of the Masai Mara national reserve.
Resident Wildlife
The Masai Mara in August is one of the best times to see its incredible resident wildlife, flourishing across its vast landscapes. Although the Great Migration steals all the headlines, the resident species that grace the park throughout the year offer a captivating glimpse into its abundant biodiversity.
- Big cats: Lions, leopards, cheetahs. * Herbivores: Zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes (topis, elands, and impalas).
- Birds: Sacred ibises, African jacanas, wattled starlings, cattle egrets.
- Others: Hyenas, jackals, hippos, crocodiles
Aug it is a month of movement for the resident buffalo herds and are constantly be flitting around them in the form of wattled starlings, oxpeckers and cattle egrets. Their symbiotic relationships provide a rare window into the way species live together. While zebras continue to roam the plains, munching away, the southbound herds look diminished from earlier in the season. Resident wildebeests, by contrast, have yet to descend in any numbers upon the Musiara marsh this time around, but spectacular crossings continue to be a feature at some of the Mara River’s most famous fords.
The predators are in overdrive, lions and leopards hunting on the open plains. The infamous Marsh Pride females have come back to their Musiara marsh territory after months away. Overlapping between lion prides, as they test boundaries and defend territories, has been recorded. Hyenas, another key predator, are abundant and a curious cub from a resident clan was recently seen wandering. It’s a fluid tableau of predator and prey.
Birdlife adorns the Mara’s canvas, particularly around the wetlands. Sacred ibises and African jacanas are among some favorite species observed around ephemeral waters. Open-billed storks that migrate in huge flocks are less in August because of drier conditions. The contrast in bird activity underscores seasonal shifts in the Mara’s habitats.
Herbivores are yet another staple. Antelope such as impala, topi and eland graze alongside zebras with giraffe and towering bull waterbucks – 25% larger than females – complementing the diversity. This diversity fuels the park’s strong predator-prey cycle and keeps the ecosystem humming all year round.
Your Safari
August in the Masai Mara delivers incredible safari adventures, combining the best of wildlife sightings with the breathtaking Great Migration. You have to plan carefully to squeeze the most out of your visit because this is one of the busiest months in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Here are some alternatives and advice to assist you in planning your safari.
- Game drives: Explore the vast plains in an open vehicle, spotting diverse wildlife, including predators and prey.
- Walking safaris: Immerse yourself in the environment with guided walks, offering an intimate perspective on the ecosystem.
- Balloon safaris: Witness the landscape and herds from above during sunrise for a unique view.
- Cultural experiences: Combine wildlife viewing with visits to local Maasai villages to learn about their traditions.
If you can do one visit in the Mara, make it the Mara Triangle. This off-the-beaten-path region provides some of our best wildlife experiences, minus the crowds of the main reserve. It’s especially attractive to anyone eager to experience the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. The Triangle is also the best place to spot epic river crossings during the wildebeest migration.
Timing your safari is crucial. Mornings and late afternoons are the ideal times, since that’s when the animals are out and about. You may see lions coming back from a hunt or elephants congregating at waterholes. For a safari you’ll never forget, migration safaris in August enable you to track the wildebeest and zebra herds, often meeting predators on their journey. Observing these creatures cross crocodile-infested rivers is electrifying and humbling.
August is perfect for safaris, as it is one of the busiest months. Crowds and increased prices are to be expected, particularly around migration hotspots. For a less crowded and more economical time, visit during the rainy season. Though the rains may bring gray skies, they transform the terrain into an oasis and attract fewer tourists as well. Otherwise, January-March is the lions and calving season, which holds its own fascination.
Where To Stay
With the Great Wildebeest Migration still drawing crowds, the Masai Mara in August is a popular destination, so it’s important to know where to stay. There’s something for everyone, from high-end lodges to sustainable green camps. Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding.
- The Masai Mara comes with options. Luxury safari lodges offer top-of-the-line amenities, such as private plunge pools, gourmet meals, and spa treatments. These are great for the comfort- and convenience-loving traveler. Mobile tented camps, typically established along rivers, offer a more ‘barebones’ experience of immersion, marrying closeness to nature with basic amenities. Some camps are mobile, set up to track the migration, providing rare chances to observe wildlife action first-hand. For smaller parties or couples, boutique lodges with just a handful of rooms or tents feel more exclusive, individual. Bigger lodges, on the other hand, might have common areas and more amenities.
- Neighboring conservancies, such as the Mara North Conservancy and Olare Motorogi Conservancy provide a quieter, more intimate option than the main reserve. There are generally less safari vehicles in these regions, improving the experience. Lodges in Olare Motorogi, for example, have fantastic game viewing, particularly for big cats, as the predator population here is dense. Likewise, lodgings surrounding the Talek River in Mara North Conservancy entice guests with incredible vistas and proximity to animal territory. Opting for a conservancy lodge would provide opportunities for guided bush walks and night drives, which are not allowed within the main reserve.
- A number of lodges and camps in the Masai Mara focus heavily on sustainability, merging luxury with a sense of environmental responsibility. These stays typically rely on clean energy, reduce waste, and empower local people with jobs and education. By staying at such lodges you’re assisting conservation as well as getting to meet some amazing people and share cultures with the local villages.
It pays to book early , August is peak season, and sought-after camps go quickly.
A Photographer’s Dream
Known as a photographer’s dream, the Masai Mara National Reserve combines some of Africa’s most prolific wildlife with iconic landscapes. August, in the midst of the wildebeest migration, is a photographer’s dream. From intense predator/prey moments to stunning sunsets, the possibilities are endless.
Wildlife photography in the Masai Mara requires preparation and skill. A good strategy is to hit them early, animals being more active in the cooler morning. The soft golden glow of sunrise brings out the best in the details and colors of the subjects and makes for beautiful pictures. Likewise, evening light at sunset permits stunning silhouettes of giraffes, elephants and zebra against the golden plains. A 400mm lens is essential, allowing photographers to shoot close-up without scaring the animals away. The reserve plays host to the Big Five, giving you an opportunity to capture lions on the hunt, leopards lounging on tree limbs and Cape buffalo grazing in the open.
Predators-in-action are a photographer’s dream come August. Lions in the grass, cheetahs chasing, and crocodiles lying in wait at the Mara River are just a few of the stunning photo opportunities. It’s all about timing and having patience because if you watch an animal’s movements long enough, you can begin to anticipate action shots. Apart from predators, the Masai Mara’s abundant birdlife, with 57 species of raptors such as Martial Eagle and African Hawk-Eagle, presents a special challenge to bird photographers.
The Masai Mara region is just as stunning. The undulating golden grasslands, scattered acacia trees, and dramatic escarpments provide unlimited inspiration for compositions. Clouds are spectacularly patterned, particularly in the afternoon, and ideal for landscape photography. Photographers can benefit from riverine woodlands to break up the dry savannahs.
Below are some tips for enhancing your wildlife photography skills:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Golden Hour Use | Maximize sunrise and sunset for softer, warm lighting. |
| Camera Settings | Use fast shutter speeds for action shots; adjust ISO for low light. |
| Patience | Wait and observe animal behavior for dynamic shots. |
| Lenses | Prefer a 400mm lens for close-ups. |
| Framing | Include the landscape to give context to your subject. |
